Red List: Least Concern (LC). GB Status: Common.

Identification

Usually distinctive. Care required, potential confusion with Grey Pug and worn White-spotted Pug.

Recording method

Attracted to light.

Life cycle

Two generations. Overwinters as a pupa. Larvae June to July, again September to October. Pupates in loose earth.

Larval foodplants

First generation said to feed on Hawthorn. Second generation larvae feed on ragworts and Goldenrod.

Habitat

A wide range including roadside verges, farmland, open woodland and gardens.

History

First recorded for Dumfries and Galloway in 1898 for VC74 at Corsemalzie but only in 1978 for VC73 at the Gatehouse of Fleet Rothamsted light trap and 1982 for VC72 at the Waterside Mains Rothamsted light trap.